Most Unique Twin Cities Movie Theaters

Don’t miss out on the eclectic movie theater scene in the Twin Cities

By Mary Kate Tschida

Published: March 15, 2018

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If you are an adventurous film-goer, check out these eclectic Twin Cities movie theaters that promise a diverse lineup of films and a unique viewing experience. Whether you’re looking to catch a Hollywood blockbuster, an independent film, a classic, or a foreign film, one of these theaters will have what you’re looking for.

Trylon Cinema
Classic movie fans have found their place at the Trylon Cinema. Located in the Longfellow neighborhood of Minneapolis, this theater was established in 2009 by the nonprofit Trylon. The theater was remodeled in 2017 and doubled its capacity, going from 50 to 91 seats. Known for showing classic films six nights a week, Trylon has gained a reputation for its unique programming, ranging from forgotten silent films to foreign films to genre legends.

Riverview Theater Riverview Theater combines 21st century cinema technology with a 1950s style theater. Experience movie going as it was in the '50s, when neighborhood theaters were booming. Riverview originally opened in 1948 and was recognized in national publications as one of the most fabulous theaters of the time. The Riverview's film lineup runs the gamut from Hollywood blockbusters to niche art films, all for $3 admission!

Heights Theater
The Heights Theater in Colombia Heights, a northeast Minneapolis suburb, is one of best-equipped venues for film and digital presentation in the Twin Cities. It was constructed in 1926 and showcased local talent in stage plays. The theater features an 89-year-old organ, which an organist plays before the 7:10 p.m. showing every Friday and Saturday night. The Heights Theater now specializes in upscale firstrun films, classic film, and events.

St. Anthony Main Theatre
Located northeast of downtown Minneapolis on Historic Main Street is St. Anthony Main Theatre. With beautiful views of the Mississippi River and the Minneapolis skyline, and surrounded by popular restaurants such as Aster Café and Vic's Restaurant, the theater is in one of the most picturesque locations in the Twin Cities. The theater is home to the Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul and hosts their International Film Festival every spring. Because of this partnership, the theater shows independent movies as well as big studio films. It is also close to the U of M campus and offers students $6 tickets with a student ID.

Highland and Grandview Theaters
St. Paul once had more than 100 movie theaters, but now it has only two: Highland and Grandview Theaters. These family-owned theaters may be two of nine Mann Theatres locations, but they are unique in their own right. In 1970, Marvin Mann expanded Mann Theatres when he purchased the Highland and Grandview theaters in St. Paul. Highland and Grandview are treasured by community members, which see the theaters as a way to create a small town feel in a big city. The theaters make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time with their 1930s-era art deco charm.

Uptown Theatre
Located in the heart of the Uptown shopping district, Uptown Theatre features the finest in independent and foreign language cinema. The theater also hosts weekly midnight showings of classic films, such as the legendary Rocky Horror Picture Show. The theater has all you could want, including 4K digital projection, plush seats and sofas, reserved ticketing, gourmet concession items, and a fantastic selection of wine, beer, and cocktails. Uptown is a single-screen theater, so don’t hesitate to buy your tickets beforehand, as showings do sell out.